Local 127

I see all of the rave reviews, but the food was really not very interesting.  Being local ingredients does not make a dish good all by itself.  We had the Chef sampler, the roasted beets, and the potato skins.  The sampler did not blow me away.  Of the three, the beets were best.  For a main course, we had the meat loaf and I can hardly recall the other dish.  Very unmemorable other than having an overpowering wild rice.  I like good food; this was just boring

Note:  the 5 stars assume you're a foodie willing to pay over $20 for a great meal

My friends and I tried Local 127 out after I found it on my searches for restaurants using fresh, local ingredients.  I must admit that we almost walked out after seeing the menu - only 6 or so entrees, each costing over $20.  And based on the fancy descriptions, we expected the portions to be small as well.  But we stayed (largely because it was pouring down rain), and I'm glad we did.

We all got something different, and we all LOVED the food.  It was so unique, fresh, and flavorful.  Definitely the best meal I've had in a long time.  I will definitely be going back.  It's certainly expensive, but the food is truly an experience you won't find elsewhere (innovative and of great quality), and you really do get a lot.  I also like supporting local businesses who really add to the community.

Some things I really liked (aside from the amazing food):
- The chef was flexible.  He made a vegetarian dish for my friend and substituted a vegetable for me since I try to minimize carbs.  And they weren't just quick swap-outs:  the results were totally new, fabulous dishes

- The serving sizes were a nice surprise.  I brought some food home, and my friends said they wish they had - that they ate it all because it was so yummy but were uncomfortably full.  

- The amazing muffins before dinner and the chocolate chip cookies after were very pleasant surprises

- When they boxed up my leftovers, they included every last drop.  I usually ask to box the food up myself - because many places just drop the meat in a box, leaving behind vegetables and sauces.

This was my first time dining at Local 127 and already looking forward to a return visit. We did not have reservations on a Friday night but were graciously seated immediately. Our hostess and server were both very  friendly and knowledgeable. Because of Lent, the dinner options were limited and we were in the mood for pasta. Our server suggested several options, but in the end we asked for Chef to surprise us. Wow! We were served a pasta dish with a white sauce base mixed with perfectly cooked vegetables and topped with an egg. Absolutely delicious!